By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, July 11: Sarawak’s aquaculture industry received a significant boost with the official opening of the Curtin Aquaculture Research Laboratories (CARL) at Curtin University Malaysia (Curtin Malaysia) in Miri.
According to a press release, Sarawak Food Industry, Commodities, and Regional Development Minister, Dato Sri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom, highlighted the sector’s rapid growth and its importance in enhancing food security and economic prosperity.
“As global demand for seafood and aquatic products soars, harnessing the latest scientific and technological innovations is imperative to ensure sustainable and efficient production,” Dr Rundi was quoted as saying.
The minister’s speech was read out by his deputy, Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Ismail, who represented him at the opening of CARL, which coincided with Curtin Malaysia’s 25th anniversary celebration, which was attended by many Malaysian and international guests.
Dr Rundi emphasised CARL’s pivotal role in advancing research on sustainable fish farming practices, disease management, genetic improvement, and environmental impact assessment.
“The research at these laboratories will not only boost the productivity and sustainability of our aquaculture industry but also provide invaluable insights into conserving our marine and freshwater resources,” he said.
As per the release, CARL aims to become a collaborative hub for academia, industry, and government to exchange knowledge and best practices.
The advancements and breakthroughs at CARL are expected to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of aquaculture practices, leading to increased production, job creation, and economic growth.
Professor Harlene Hayne, Vice-Chancellor of Curtin University, also spoke at the ceremony, highlighting the significance of relocating CARL from Perth to Miri.
This move positions Curtin Malaysia as a regional leader in aquaculture research.
“CARL will address real-world challenges and drive innovation in aquaculture, fostering joint research initiatives and academic collaborations essential for Malaysia’s future development,” she remarked.
The facility will support cutting-edge research in aquaculture technology, water quality, fish disease management, and fish nutrition. It will also serve as a hub for knowledge exchange, promoting sustainable practices that enhance the aquaculture industry and bolster Malaysia’s food security efforts.
The event was graced by several notable guests, including Sarawak Transport Minister and chair of Curtin Malaysia’s Management Committee, Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin; Deputy Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, Datuk Sebastian Ting; Western Australia Investment and Trade Commissioner for ASEAN, Bryce Green; Curtin University Deputy Vice-Chancellor Global, Professor Xiaotian Zhang; and members of Curtin Malaysia’s Council and Board of Directors. Also present were Curtin Malaysia Pro Vice-Chancellor President and Chief Executive Professor Simon Leunig, CARL Director Professor Ravi Kumar Fotedar, and representatives from the Australian high commissions in Malaysia and Brunei, the Australian Trade and Investment Commission, and the Western Australian Trade Office.
For more information about Curtin Malaysia, visit www.curtin.edu.my or follow Curtin Malaysia on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok. — DayakDaily
